An interview with an overseas winner
Quolt Design
(Aditya Dilip Kulkarni, Rohit Bisht, Vishnu Raj Azhikodan)
“Know more”
2023 Audience Award
“Know More” is a packaging design concept aimed at bringing awareness to save the critically endangered species. The unpacking experience is intended to evoke a feeling of separating a creature from its herd symbolizing the vanishing of that species from the face of the planet and at the same time giving the user some information about the species’ endangered status. Since a tape is a stationery tool used for fixing the broken, the act of sticking pieces together with a tape symbolizes the human endeavor to reverse the damage caused.
―― Can you please tell us why you decided to apply for the KOKUYO DESIGN AWARD?
We learned about it through an introduction from a person who had previously applied for the KOKUYO DESIGN AWARD. We applied because we wanted to test our skill sets and design abilities. We were motivated by the fact that our work might be productized by KOKUYO.
―― What did you think when you learned that you were selected as a finalist?
We were proud when we learned that we were chosen to be in the top 10. It was proof that our design process was correct, and we were very pleased that our skills were recognized.
―― How did you prepare for the final presentation?
We had a lot to say, so we spent a lot of time condensing all the information down to fit into the 5 minutes we were given. It took 52 attempts of trial and error before we settled on our final design.
―― Were you worried about doing your presentation in Japan?
We felt a mixture of excitement and tension while presenting in front of the judges who we look up to and the other outstanding finalists. We were very nervous about whether we could say what we wanted to say because of the language barrier, but thanks to the help of a very talented interpreter, we were able to give a good presentation that day.
―― Was there anything that left an impression on you during the final judging?
All of the judges' comments were valuable and insightful. Knowing which parts of our design didn't meet their expectations helped us to improve it accordingly. The judges' comments helped to open our eyes to a variety of perspectives.
After the award ceremony, we were able to interact with the judges and other finalists at a social gathering. It was very fun and fulfilling. It's rare to get the opportunity to closely interact with judges who are active at the forefront of the design industry.
―― Was there anything about Japan that left an impression on you?
We had heard a lot about and seen many pictures of Tokyo, Mt. Fuji, cherry blossoms, pop culture, works of art, and so on, and we were very excited to see them all in person. We felt that it would take quite a few days to fully explore Tokyo.
―― What would you like to say to those who are considering applying in the future?
Even if you are from overseas, you will not be treated differently from the Japanese applicants. Also, all correspondence regarding the KOKUYO DESIGN AWARD was quick. So, applicants only need to focus on coming up with the best design that they can!
